This evening, Arsenal welcomed Brighton to north London in the Premier League 2 clash, but there was no sign of Marquinhos.
The Brazilian – who was signed in a £3m deal from Sao Paulo at the start of June – has been a standout performer for the Arsenal Under-21 side this season, scoring three goals in three games while also providing one assist.
Marquinhos is not injured – as far as we know – so we believe his exclusion could hint to something exciting happening for the South American against Fulham tomorrow.
What’s the story?
Well, the 19-year-old has been left out of the Arsenal Under-21 side less than 24 hours after OGC Nice signed Nicolas Pepe on loan.
Interestingly, the pair both play on the right wing, where they tend to cut inside on their stronger left foot.
That means there is a place on the bench for Mikel Arteta to fill, and the absence of Marquinhos tonight suggests he could be the man to replace the Ivorian – for tomorrow’s clash with Fulham, at least.
Depending on how the game goes, the teenager could even make his Premier League debut.
If Arsenal are struggling to defeat the Cottagers, we doubt Arteta will throw Marquinhos in at the deep end.
However, if the Gunners are coasting, and find themselves three or four goals to the good, we believe the Spaniard may consider giving his £3m signing a first taste of the Premier League.
Marquinhos will surely get Arsenal chance soon
Regardless of whether he is involved tomorrow, we believe Marquinhos isn’t far away from a first-team opportunity if he keeps his form up in the Premier League 2.
As aforesaid, the Brazilian has already scored three goals in three games – while also setting one up – and he hasn’t exactly faced the simplest of opponents either.
Marquinhos has come up against the Under-21 sides of Manchester United, Chelsea and West Ham so far since arriving from Sao Paulo, but he has proven himself more than capable at that level.
If he keeps it up, his Premier League debut is surely not far away – if it doesn’t come tomorrow, that is.
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